"The third best conference" - Is that what we are down too? Maybe in terms of media money, but the difference between the 12 and ACC are not so different. I don't see the BIG and SEC braking away to "keep all the playoff money". There is way too much football content out there, and if they want to keep on getting those media contracts, they will need the rest of college football to be healthy. The 20% needs the 80%, or they do not exist. You are right, the Bi12 needs the PAC and ACC, but not so they can be ranked "third". It is so there will be a robust CFB playoff system where we all can compete. At what point did this become a win or loss depending on your media contract, or what conference you are in. The conferences do not play the games, the teams do. Texas, for instance, has always been "richer' then TCU or Baylor - by far (it's never been close). What has changed here? They make more money - by far. Nothing has changed, and teams like TCU can go on a good run, and win it all. The board room, and the negotiating table, are not the king makers. Coaches, recruiting, administrations, and alumni support make the kings.